Isolation

Isolation is a tactic that abusers use frequently. It not only helps them to control their subject, but it also helps to make the abused look just crazy enough as then no one is around to see the abuse on a daily basis.
If you're currently in a relationship that is abusive, wait for a safe time and then LEAVE.
Trust me when I say that it never gets better.
The side effect of my mother's decisions meant that I had no one to turn to...sure, I had my Dad, but he had a new wife, a new life, a new kid...and that was that. When people nonchalantly ask me now who raised me, I always reply with, "Me."
And they never know what to say to that.